MS Dhoni still hears thunderous appreciation whenever he walks onto the pitch to bat, but his match contributions have yet to match anticipation. In the Chennai Super Kings’ 25-run defeat by Delhi Capitals, their third defeat on the trot in IPL 2025, Dhoni achieved an unbeaten 30 of 26 deliveries. Although the score appears dignified, it didn’t aid CSK much in their attempt to chase down 184.

As the needed run rate continued to rise—at one stage going past 24 runs an over—Dhoni did not show his signature aggression. The 43-year-old only tried big shots towards the end, by which time the game was already out of CSK’s hands. Having come in in the 11th over, he depended too much on singles and dot balls, lacking the desperation the situation required.

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Nostalgia Over Impact

Since the introduction of the Impact Player rule, Dhoni’s presence has been more symbolic than strategic. Fans still roar with excitement every time he appears, but his role often feels like a farewell tour. Remarkably, Dhoni hasn’t hit a single six in a winning cause since IPL 2023.

Against Delhi, he and Vijay Shankar contributed an unbroken 84-run stand, but their meek attitude placed CSK too far behind while chasing. Even against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Dhoni was promoted at No. 9 when the match was lost, but fans were excited to witness him play a few fours.

Patterns of Passive Play

In Guwahati against Rajasthan Royals, CSK once again got an opportunity to get Dhoni in early when Shankar was dismissed in the 12th over. Ravindra Jadeja was sent up instead. Dhoni arrived with 54 runs to be scored off 25 balls and gave no evident indication that he was interested in chasing down the target. His strategy was still conservative even as the game drifted away.

A Franchise at the Crossroads

CSK is now stranded in the second half of the IPL points table with hopes of playoffs fading. With younger talent waiting to take the stage, Dhoni’s ongoing place in the XI presents a problem. His utility is confined to glove work and tactical advice, since his batting is no longer producing match-winning magic.

While his record as CSK’s talisman is intact, the franchise might have to make difficult choices in the times ahead. In a league that survives and prospers on form and intent, sentimentality can cost more than just games.